Arsenal target Southampton enforcer

Arsenal are targeting Southampton’s Victor Wanyama as the club steps up their pursuit of a new defensive midfielder, according to the Metro.

Arsene Wenger has been in the market this summer for a new central midfielder, but has been unsuccessful in his attempts to sign Sami Khedira, William Carvalho and Morgan Schneiderlin.

The Gunners’ captain Mikel Arteta picked up a knee injury against Besiktas in mid-week, and the situation looks to have forced Wenger into more urgent action in the transfer market.

It is believed that Arsenal are prepared to table a bid for Wanyama, seeing him as a cheaper alternative to their initial targets.

The Arsenal boss is a keen admirer of Wanyama, having already failed in an effort to sign him back in his Celtic days.

Southampton and Arsenal have built up a strong relationship over the years, with the North London club having signed a number of the Saints’ top young stars, including Calum Chambers earlier this summer.

Wanyama played 23 games in the Premier League last season for Southampton.